Three quarters of parents are sceptical about their children’s chances of securing a creative job, a survey of 2,000 parents has shown. Despite 66 per cent liking the idea of their kids pursuing roles like graphic design, game design, or broadcasting, a significant 73 per cent feel the pathways and opportunities in the creative industries are too limited. Additionally, almost two-thirds worry that success in the creative field relies heavily on having the right ‘contacts’, with 57 per cent believing networking is as important as qualifications for career progression.
The study also found that 84 per cent of parents think that in industries like broadcast and TV, it’s more about ‘who you know’ than ‘what you know’ when it comes to getting ahead. Almost a third of parents (27 per cent) consider a ‘secure’ career path more important than following one’s passion in today’s job market. However, 86 per cent indicated that they would feel more confident about their child pursuing a creative career if they were more informed about the available opportunities.
The research, conducted on behalf of the Gatsby Charitable Foundation, aims to raise awareness of T-levels, a two-year career-focused qualification for 16- to 19-year-olds that offers a 45-day industry placement and is equivalent to three A-levels. Singer, author, and TV personality, Alesha Dixon, part of the ‘T-team’, emphasised that the creative industries offer diverse opportunities beyond being in front of the camera. She highlighted the importance of giving young people the chance to build a network of contacts before turning 18.
Nearly half of the parents surveyed expressed a desire for more internships and work placements in creative fields and better promotion of these opportunities in society. TV Presenter and Businesswoman Sara Davies, also part of the ‘T-team’, stressed the need for more young talent in the creative industries. She highlighted that using creative skills is beneficial across various aspects of life and work environments, emphasizing the wide-ranging benefits of creativity in different job settings.
The findings shed light on parents’ concerns and aspirations regarding their children’s pursuit of creative careers, indicating the need for more information and opportunities to support young people in entering these industries successfully.